Carla Grisoni Pato

VP, Assistant General Manager/Chief of Staff at Miami HEAT

“Interviewing Carla Pato from the Miami Heat was an absolute delight and an inspiration. Her presence exuded warmth and determination, creating an atmosphere that was both inviting and empowering. Carla’s journey from Ann Arbor to the pinnacle of professional basketball showcased the resilience and passion that drive her every step of the way. Her insights into the game went beyond mere statistics, offering a glimpse into the mindset of a true champion.

What truly stood out was Carla’s commitment to community outreach and empowerment. Beyond her prowess on the court, she shared stories of initiatives she spearheaded to uplift underprivileged youth, demonstrating a genuine desire to make a positive impact beyond basketball. Carla’s humility and grace in navigating success serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all of the power of perseverance and the importance of giving back to others. Interviewing her was not just a professional highlight but a personal one, leaving an indelible mark of inspiration and admiration” – Zara Halabu

What did you study in college, and how did your educational background shape your career in business?

I graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sports Management & Communication. Attending the School of Kinesiology exposed to me to various aspects of sports from the study of movement science, physical therapy and the business side that involved marketing, media, legal, facility operations and much more.

Can you share the key milestones in your career that led you to your current position with the Heat?

I have been working at the Miami HEAT/Kaseya Center for 21 years. I have had the opportunity to coordinate world class events, award shows, HEAT games, NBA Playoffs and Championship Parades that allowed me to build my experience, build relationships with others and learn many facets of running the building operations. During COVID, I was tasked to be the Health & Hygiene Manager to implement new healthy and safety procedures and protocols collaborating with our team and the NBA, which pushed me into new territories. Over the last several seasons, I now liaison with our F&B partner and oversee supporting our Elevate initiatives and service standards to improve both the PT Staff and the guest experience.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in business, and how did you overcome them?

Work-life balance has been one of my biggest challenges as a woman in business, wife, and mother of two. You want to give your best and not feel judged. Navigating this balance and knowing your limits is a constant effort. You need to remind yourself it is okay to ask others to help and collaborate and to set realistic expectations on deadlines.

Balancing a career can be demanding. How do you manage work-life balance, and what strategies have worked well for you?

We work in an industry that entails working weeknights, weekends, and holidays to hosts games and concerts. This is a lifestyle choice. Despite the hours, working in the sports and entertainment business is exciting. However, it can be challenging at times to balance your work and personal life. It is important to maintain open communication with your peers, set expectations and goals, proper planning and remind yourself when it is okay to step away and empower others to help them develop and accomplish common goals at the same time.

Have you had mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career? How important is mentorship for women in business?

Absolutely! Two mentors that have shaped my path is my former EVP/GM, Kim Stone and current EVP/GM, Jarred Diamond. They have both helped paved my path and instilled faith in my ability to continue growing. Having a mentor is invaluable. They can help with your career development, expand your horizon, and push you to unlock your potential.

How do you approach networking in your industry, and how has it contributed to your professional growth?

Networking and establishing relationships in our industry is important to stay relevant, share best practices and learn current trends. We recently hosted the NBA Game Experience Round table with leaders from other NBA teams who are responsible for the game and fan experience. Hosting and networking opportunities allow you to collaborate with others, show case your efforts and welcome innovative ideas to potentially implement.

In a male-dominated industry, do you feel women are given equal opportunities? What steps do you think can be taken to promote gender equality in the sports business?

I am fortunate to work for an organization that is very inclusive and supportive of female leadership. As a female we need to keep advocating for each other. We need to lean in and support each other. We need to help pave the path for other women and provide them with opportunities to have their voice heard and feel empowered.

How do you stay updated on industry trends, and what advice do you have for staying relevant in a rapidly evolving business landscape?

I am a member of the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM); When possible, I try to attend at least one conference a year to stay relevant with industry trends and continue to network. I register for webinars. My advice is to read articles, share best practices with each other, listen to business related or leadership podcasts. Ask your leaders what they follow and read to stay connected in the industry.

What advice do you have for young women aspiring to build a successful career in the sports industry?

Do not be afraid to speak up, make your voice heard, let go of your self-limiting beliefs, you can always develop your talent to what it will eventually be, and do not be afraid to take on challenges. Find a mentor that can help you navigate, connect you with others and support your growth.

What aspects of your work in the sports industry do you find most fulfilling, and how do you hope to contribute to the industry’s growth and positive impact?

I love the fact that after 21 years of working in the sports and entertainment industry, I am still learning! I love working with so many people from different departments, vendor partners, and clients. No day is the same. I hope to impact others and help with their leadership development and continue to improve both the staff and guest experience at the Kaseya Center.

Any fun facts or interesting things you’d like the world to learn about you? Favorite food, hobbies, pet peeves, etc. 🙂

I love travelling and learning about other cultures. I love spending time with my boys and creating memories and adventures with them.